Sermon Illustrations

Birds of Feather

Flock Together

Many in America will tell you that they are Christians because they believe in Jesus Christ. Others attempt to proclaim their faith in Him by becoming members of a local church that they may or may not regularly attend. They have convinced themselves as long as they occasionally do what appears to be religious they are making a proclamation of being disciples of Christ. Thus, many find themselves only producing a form of godliness, yet denying the power of the true God in their lives.

Jesus gives this approach to witnessing, “A new command- ment I give you: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35) God’s word gives clear instructions on how to fulfill Jesus’ commandment to “Love One Another.” A foundational Scripture is Rom. 12:10, “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another.” (KJV)

The heart of a true child of God who is led of the Holy Spirit realizes that his purpose is to love and express a life that honors the Lord so that those in this world may know that he is a disciple of Christ. People by nature observe what is lived out before them. There is a powerful truth which says, “The people you associate with and allow to influence your life indicate who or what your gods are.”

Naturalists have observed that Canadian Geese have a strong sense of family dedication. Both parents defend and provide for the young. Often several parents in family groups will join together in taking care of the little goslings. Those who study Canadian Geese have been intrigued by their loyalty to family groups which stay very close together even within large flocks. If a bird becomes ill or injured during migration and cannot continue with the flock, a few family members will go down with the unhealthy bird to keep it safe while it recuperates. Only when the injured bird is ready to fly or succumbs to death will the healthy geese take off again. God has placed within these geese what is needed for their individual survival and for the existence of the entire flock. These natural instincts are given to them by their Creator.

Usually Canadian Geese are seen with other Canadian Geese, Snow Geese with other Snow Geese and sparrows with other sparrows. The title of this CrossRoads is taken from a familiar saying that all of you have heard and know the meaning of, “Birds of a feather flock together.” The Creator of the heavens and earth has given all that a man needs to know for abundant life in His Word, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing…” (Hebrews 10:25)

As people observe your life, who do they see you fellowship with? Which flock do they see you joining? Are you seen mostly with those who desire and hunger for the Word of God? With those who are striving to meet the needs of others…raising up and protecting new believers in Christ? Are you seen as someone who takes every opportunity to do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of God? (Galatians 6:10) Do you prefer to be with the Body of Christ and to be seen as having the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus? If not, surrender to God’s call today; receive Christ to be both Savior and Lord of your heart and life! Become a true disciple of Christ!

Related Sermon Illustrations

Related Sermons

  • Honor One Another Series

    Contributed by David Owens on Sep 28, 2009
    based on 4 ratings
     | 33,924 views

    We discover in this sermon that to honor one another above ourselves, we must learn to be humble.

  • Living In Love Or Death Series

    Contributed by Dennis Davidson on Jan 14, 2013
    based on 15 ratings
     | 28,529 views

    We are taught here in John that we know that we have passed out of death into life because we love the brethren. Love of the brethren is a proof of sonship. People with a heart for God have a heart for people.

  • "True Success”

    Contributed by Alan Hughes on Apr 23, 2006
    based on 6 ratings
     | 22,780 views

    What is success? What does it mean to you this morning to live a successful life? If you asked 10 people you would most likely get 10 different answers.

  • The Primacy Of Love Series

    Contributed by Dennis Davidson on Oct 29, 2012
    based on 9 ratings
     | 17,986 views

    This paragraph again describes the Christian's responsibility toward all men. Our relationship to others can be summarized in one word, namely Love. Love one another is the basic principle of the Christian life.

  • Power

    Contributed by Michael Stark on Jun 2, 2007
    based on 5 ratings
     | 12,508 views

    The one necessary ingredient for effective service before the Lord is power. This is what few contemporary Christians have, perhaps because they are uncertain what they should look for.

Browse All Media

Related Media


Disciples
SermonCentral
Preaching Slide
Not Dead But Alive
Tim Kressin
Video Illustration